The Manistee County Council on Aging (MCCOA) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organized in 1971; funded by a

voter-approved millage, and serving all senior citizens regardless of income or ability.  The council works to

keep seniors socialized and independent through a variety of programs and activities offered to

Manistee County residents over the age of 60.

As the senior population grows, the MCCOA’s mission of promoting quality of life and independence

by addressing unique needs and challenges is more vital than ever.  The wealth of talent in Manistee County’s

senior population is among the area’s most valuable resources.  They bring a lifetime of experiences invaluable

to solving myriad complex problems.  The contribution of the senior population in Manistee County alone deserves the continuing support of the entire community.

The MCCOA is housed in the Wagoner Community Center, located a short walk from Fifth Street Beach to the

East, and the center of Manistee’s cultural, commercial and civic amenities to the North. Every weekday, the

Center hosts a variety of programs and activities, including a congregate meal site for the Senior Nutrition

program and daily lunch service.

A 2023 Housing Needs Assessment conducted by Housing North reported the senior population (age 65+)

in Manistee County will grow 22.2% over the next five years.  Limited housing supply in Manistee County

already presents an urgent obstacle to meeting the needs of the population at large in the form of a

housing deficit of nearly 2,000 units, including the need for senior housing. The MCCOA is uniquely positioned

to help move the needle on achievable housing within the county and presents an exciting opportunity

to make an impact on filling this gap for Manistee County’s seniors.

 

The Wagoner Community Center’s vacant acreage is offered for sale to RFP respondents committed to develop and build attainable senior housing.